The ABCs of Black History

November 1, 2020
Grades K-3 Be prepared to learn more than 26 nuggets of information from this rendition of the alphabet, which here provides the organizational framework for the creators pack vocabulary, concepts, events, names, and more pertaining to Black activism and accomplishments in the distant and recent past. Some letters introduce single concepts--""A is for anthem," "D is for diaspora"--while others involve paragraphs that highlight multiple terms--F is for food, farmed, fried fish, folklore, family, freedom. In this way, readers are provided descriptions and illustrations of traditions within context. Notable people mentioned include artists, scientists, politicians, activists, and others, ranging from Queen Nefertiti to DJ Kool Herc. The predictable format allows readers to linger and wonder as, with each page turn, emotional cues swing, hitting everything from grief to elation. The layers of history are plentiful and complex. Semmer's illustrations are bold, crisp, and contemporary. Extensive back matter supplements the main text, making this a useful mentor text for writing projects, a springboard for research, and an essential addition to classroom libraries.

COPYRIGHT(2020) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

December 7, 2020
Poet Cortez pens an informative ode to Black history in her children’s book debut—for each letter of this abecedarian, she offers lightly alliterative, rhyming text that illuminates historically significant concepts and figures. C, for example, covers community and church, continuing, “Did you hear Reverend King preach on his dream/ of civil rights, human rights, a powerful theme?” Bold digital illustrations by Semmer evoke cut-paper collage, featuring Black figures with a range of skin tones and hairstyles against colorful and patterned backgrounds. A particularly resonant spread shows a crowd holding signs that reflect both historical and current events, including “We March with Selma” and “We Can’t Breathe,” demonstrating to young readers how past occurrences affect the present. A richly accessible resource for anyone seeking to celebrate Black visionaries. Front matter includes additional resources; back matter includes definitions, further explanations, and biographical details behind each entry. Ages 5–up.

Starred review from October 15, 2020
An impressive array of names, events, and concepts from Black history are introduced in this alphabet book for early-elementary readers. From A for anthem ("a banner of song / that wraps us in hope, lets us know we belong") to Z for zenith ("the top of that mountain King said we would reach"), this picture book is a journey through episodes, ideas, and personalities that represent a wide range of Black experiences. Some spreads celebrate readers themselves, like B for beautiful ("I'm talking to you!"); others celebrate accomplishments, such as E for explore (Matthew Henson, Mae Jemison), or experiences, like G for the Great Migration. The rhyming verses are light on the tongue, making the reading smooth and soothing. The brightly colored, folk art-style illustrations offer vibrant scenes of historical and contemporary Black life, with common people and famous people represented in turn. Whether reading straight through and poring over each page or flipping about to look at the refreshing scenes full of brown and black faces, readers will feel pride and admiration for the resilience and achievements of Black people and a call to participate in the "unfinished...American tale." Endnotes clarify terms and figures, and a resource list includes child-friendly books, websites, museums, and poems. A substantive and affirming addition to any collection. (Informational picture book. 6-11)

COPYRIGHT(2020) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.